Easy One-Pan Comfort Food

This 3-ingredient chili cheese Tater Tot casserole for two delivers a simple, uncomplicated meal that is absolutely delicious. Any time you need something hot, hearty, and filling, it’s perfect!

It’s so good it’s almost like a hug at the end of the day. All of the ingredients are reliable favorites that you can find in any grocery store. 

What You’ll Love About This Easy Casserole for Two

First of all, it’s a simple comfort food that warms you from the inside out. The flavors come together so well it’s almost like the ingredients were made for each other.

Secondly, when you’re cooking for two, this is plenty. Either eat it all by itself, or if you’re really hungry, add a garden salad and some delicious southern-style cornbread.

And thirdly, you only need a few ingredients to get maximum flavor. The cheesy, melty goodness will have you wanting to add this to your regular dinner rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

As the title states, you only need 3 ingredients to make this delicious one-pan meal. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Either canned or homemade chili
• Frozen Tater Tots
• Shredded cheese

This time I used canned chili. However, when I make it from scratch, I set aside some of the leftovers, specifically for dishes like this. Homemade chili is definitely the best, but either is good.

My husband prefers chili with beans, so that’s what I added. However, if you prefer the no-beans chili, then by all means, use that.

Add-Ons and Variations

Feel free to add other ingredients if you want. Here are some I’ve added in the past:

• Dash of ground cinnamon
• Chopped cilantro
• Diced bell peppers
• Diced onion
• Chopped green onions
• Chopped broccoli
• Chopped jalapeño peppers

If there’s anything else you’d like to try, then go for it! You know what your family likes.

Step-by-Step Directions

Preheat your oven to 375˚ F for the best results.

Spray your baking dish with your favorite nonstick spray. My favorite is avocado oil.

While you’re waiting for the oven to preheat, pour the chili into the bottom of the pan as evenly as possible.

Sprinkle half of the cheese over the top.

Now place a single layer of frozen Tater Tots over the top of the cheese. I place them as close together as possible.

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 35 minutes.

Remove the pan from the oven and sprinkle the rest of the cheese over the top. If you’re in a really cheesy mood, add more.

Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an addition 10 minutes or until it’s bubbly and the cheese has melted.

What to Serve with Chili Cheese Tater Tot Casserole

Serve it with some of these yummy homemade tortilla chips with a side of guacamole. Or put out a bowl of some of the tangy salsa. All of these dishes are super easy but absolutely delicious!

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are a few questions you may have about this easy meal.

Do you have to thaw the Tater Tots first?

No, you can put the frozen Tater Tots directly into the casserole. It’s so easy!

Can I double this recipe?

Absolutely, yes! When I’ve needed more food to serve the family or a hungry crowd, I’ve doubled and even tripled the recipe. Just make sure you have a big enough pan to prevent it from overflowing.

What kind of cheese works best?

I usually use either cheddar or Colby. However, mozzarella is good too. It’s gooier when it melts and gives you that stringy cheese texture with every bite.

Deliciously Simple Supper

This 3-ingredient chili cheese Tater Tot casserole for two is on of those wonderful recipes you’ll find yourself turning to over and over. With just a few pantry and refrigerator staples, you can create a warm, cheesy, flavorful dish that feels homemade, cozy, and oh-so satisfying.

When you want comfort food for two, this casserole is perfect! Have a few toppings available on the side so each person can add whatever they like for a yummy, feel-good meal!

Please feel free to share!